Puffins and Pirates ATV Tour
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Puffins and Pirates ATV Tour

Active
(4 reviews)
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Vestmannaeyjar, where beauty meets history. Home to the world's largest puffin colony, this tour offers an up-close look at these charming birds, along with fascinating facts about them. Vestmannaeyjar also boasts a rich history of pirate encounters, and you'll visit famous sites where these clashes occurred, hearing thrilling stories along the way.

We'll begin our journey by driving to the west coast, stopping at the iconic Elephant Rock. Then, we'll head to Stórhöfði, were you'll see the puffins up close, observing their playful behavior as your guide shares interesting insights.

Next, we'll follow the path of the pirates, visiting the site of the 1627 invasion and exploring locations where locals defended themselves. Finally, we'll end at Herjólfstown, delving into the lives of Icelandic pirates. This family-friendly tour combines stunning scenery with captivating tales of puffins and pirates.

This is a non-offroad tour driven on pavement only.

Available options

Share rider

Share rider: Each ATV is shared by 2 persons(2 adults or 1 adult + 1 child)
Please make sure to select each person who will be sharing ATV

Solo rider

Solo rider

What's included

Gloves
Admission to Herjolfstown
Helmets
Overalls

Detailed itinerary

1

We start the tour by going south along the island where we will, among other things, take a look at one of the most special landmarks on the island, the elephant or "elephant rock". a naturally formed sea rock that resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the sea.

2

At Stórhöfði the view to all directions is magnificent, despite the fact that the weather can make you spin around as it is one of the windiest place in the country. We will take the walk to a special place and give ourselves plenty of time to observe the crown jewel of Vestmannaeyjar, the puffins, watch them play around on the slope, take off and come in to land while the guide tells us interesting facts about the puffins and their surroundings.
The drive to Stórhöfði offers breathtaking views of the Vestmannaeyjar cluster, and on clear days, you might even glimpse Surtsey, Iceland’s youngest volcanic island, formed in 1963.

3
Stop 3

Next we hop on our ATVs and enter the path of the thrilling Pirates. The tour delves into the history of the pirates, particularly the Barbary corsairs who stormed Vestmannaeyjar in 1627. The tour guide will tell thrilling stories about the raid, how the pirates arrived, and the dramatic confrontations with the locals. Along the path, you'll learn about the clever ways the islanders tried to defend themselves and hide from the pirates, offering a glimpse into the resourcefulness of the people during these terrifying times.

Our end of the pirates path lies to Herjólfstown, where you will witness the Icelandic pirates, who, like puffins, were settlers in Vestmannaeyjar. We will see how the pirates looked, how they lived and the thrilling story about them. This part of the tour will provide an intriguing look into what life was like in Vestmannaeyjar centuries ago.

This is a NO-OFF road driving tour,
making it accessible for everyone to enjoy the landscapes of Vestmannaeyjar in comfort.

What's not included

This is a non off road tour - driven on pavement only

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Bookings from passengers on cruise ships – If cruise ship cannot enter Vestmannaeyjar due to weather or other circumstances – 70% Refund of booking

Meeting point

Please be at our location about 20 - 30 minutes before scheduled departure time.
We are just 2-3 min walk from the ferry Herjólfur. Just walk straight up from Herjólfur, we are at the corner at Strandvegur 65.

About Heimaey Island

Heimaey Island, part of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, is Iceland's largest and only inhabited volcanic island. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife, it offers a blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. The island is famous for its 1973 volcanic eruption, which dramatically reshaped its geography.

Top Attractions

Eldfell Volcano

Eldfell is a volcano that erupted in 1973, dramatically reshaping the island. You can hike to the top for stunning views.

Nature/Historical 2-3 hours for the hike Free

Seltun Thermal Area

A geothermal area with boiling mud pools and steam vents. It's a unique and otherworldly landscape.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Puffin Colonies

Heimaey is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world. You can take a boat tour to see them up close.

Nature 1-2 hours for a tour Approximately 5000-7000 ISK

Heimaey Museum

This museum tells the story of the 1973 volcanic eruption and its impact on the island.

Historical 1 hour Approximately 1000 ISK

Valahnúkamöl Beach

A beautiful black sand beach with stunning views of the ocean and cliffs.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb Soup (Kjötsúpa)

A hearty soup made with Icelandic lamb, root vegetables, and herbs.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Fish and Chips

Freshly caught fish, usually cod or haddock, fried in batter and served with chips.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish

Skyr

A traditional Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or honey.

Snack/Dessert Contains dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Eldfell Boat tours to see puffins Exploring Seltun Thermal Area Visiting local cafés Enjoying the black sand beaches Visiting Heimaey Museum Exploring local shops and restaurants Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer offers the warmest weather, longest daylight hours, and the best conditions for outdoor activities. The island is vibrant with festivals and tourist activities.

8°C to 14°C 46°F to 57°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Icelandic
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Krona (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Heimaey is generally safe with low crime rates. However, be cautious of the weather and natural hazards.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of sudden weather changes.
  • • Stay on marked paths when hiking.
  • • Be aware of the ocean currents.

Getting there

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available for scheduled tours and some local routes. Check schedules in advance.

Taxis

Available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Heimaey Town Eldfell Area

Day trips

Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)
Central to the island • Half day

Explore the various attractions within the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, including Eldfell, Seltun, and the puffin colonies.

Festivals

Vestmannaeyjar Jazz Festival • Late August

Pro tips

  • Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Bring layers of clothing for changing weather conditions.
  • Visit the puffin colonies early in the morning for the best experience.
  • Explore the island by bike or rental car for flexibility.
  • Try local specialties like fish and chips and lamb soup.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 17-99
1
Childs
Age 6-16
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 14
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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